Breaking! Football maestro, Lionel Messi loses father, Jorge
Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of football legend Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness, family sources confirmed on Friday.
Jorge was more than just a parent to the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner. For more than two decades he served as Lionel’s manager, negotiator, and closest confidant, guiding the superstar’s career from the youth fields of Rosario, Argentina, to global stardom with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami.
Born in 1958 in Rosario, Jorge worked at a steel factory before dedicating himself full-time to managing his son’s burgeoning career. He was instrumental in the 2000 move that took a 13-year-old Lionel to Barcelona for treatment of a growth hormone deficiency — a decision that changed football history.
As Lionel’s representative, Jorge handled contract renewals, image rights, and sponsorship deals, often described as fiercely protective and private. He was a constant presence in the stands and in negotiations, including the high-profile 2021 departure from Barcelona and the 2023 move to Major League Soccer with Inter Miami.
Tributes began pouring in within minutes of the announcement. Barcelona called Jorge “a foundational figure in Leo’s journey,” while Argentina’s Football Association said “football has lost a father who believed first.” Fans across social media shared photos of Jorge celebrating with Lionel after the 2022 World Cup win in Qatar.
Lionel Messi, 38, has not yet made a public statement. Inter Miami said the club “extends its deepest condolences to Leo and the entire Messi family during this difficult time” and will observe a moment of silence before its next match.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be held privately in Rosario in the coming days.
Jorge Messi leaves behind his wife Celia, and children Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol.
